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What You Need to Know Before Buying a Home in Florida
Buying a home in Florida sounds like, well, vacation and it basically is. But, there is a lot you should know before buying a home in Florida paradise. It is critical you know everything you can about the residency before spending your hard-earned money and getting locked into something you eventually do not enjoy. Before buying a home in Florida, you’ll need to know things like: current market conditions, home inspections, HOA communities, insurance, closing costs and other associated market fees. The right real estate agent will be able to guide you through this process swiftly and confidently; This is exactly what Bella Verde Realty’s role is with each client who is buying a home in Florida
Florida’s Current Market Conditions
Over the last couple years, the housing market has been on the rise. Now is a great time to buy in the Orlando/Kissimmee area. According to the Orlando Regional Realtor Association, the average home price in Orlando is currently $215,000 as of April 2017 with over 4,000 new listings in the area. Our commitment to each of our clients is to provide them the best home buying experience possible. As a result, we are continually keeping up with the market trends.
Homeowner’s Insurance in Florida
Florida is the Sunshine State, but it’s not always full of sunshine like most would assume. Since the state of Florida is mostly comprised of miles and miles of coastlines, most residents run the risk of some rough and tough weather from time to time. Floods and hurricanes are no stranger to the typical Floridian, but there are best practices to be prepared for these types of weather phenomenons. Insurance is typically going to be lower on your home if it was constructed after 2002, because it was built according to the latest building code regulations. Some factors to consider when looking for a home that will be easier to attain affordable homeowner’s insurance on are: homes with newer roofs that meet wind mitigation standards, home with newer plumbing (instance galvanized pipes), homes with updated electrical wiring, and homes with hurricane straps. You can talk to any Bella Verde Realtor about the properties’ structures and we will guide you through making sure you know everything about your future home.
Get a Home Inspection
Once you find your Florida paradise home, it’s important to have a thorough independent home inspection done before anything is finalized. This is to make sure you do not end up with a home you need to fix up immediately or shortly after buying. If you do not complete this process, you are left with no legal options against the listing agent if the home is defective in any way. We have been working with reputable independent home inspectors for quite some time, and can refer you to some of the best in the business.
You may be wondering what the typical home inspection includes, it includes: soundness of the foundation and structure as a whole, termites and other pest infestations, soil or drainage or erosion issues, odor or noise issues, the presence of mold or conditions where mold is susceptible to breeding, issues related to heating/cooling or plumbing, and/or issues with the flooring of the home.
Deed Protected Communities
There are a lot of deed-restricted communities in Florida, meaning a homeowner’s association governs the neighborhood and all of the owners pay regular fees while the association maintains certain rules and community maintenance.
Some believe this is ideal for them, but before buying a home in a deed-restricted community it is important to read all of the fine print to make sure the rules do not conflict with your lifestyle.
Closing Costs and Other Expenses
Florida is known as a “high closing cost” state, meaning exactly what it sounds like – our closing costs are typically higher than most other states. Yet, don’t let this scare you away but rather recognize how crucial it is to have a representing agent who is on your side rather than trying to work to raise their commissions. At Bella Verde Realty, our sole purpose is to find you the perfect home for the right price, while giving you peace of mind.
Find a Quality Florida Real Estate Agent
It is highly recommended that you hire a real estate agent to help you purchase or sell your home. There’s a lot that goes into making sure you are making the right decision for yourself and/or your family and at Bella Verde Realty we want to make sure you are absolutely happy with the process. We are here every step of the way from home inspections to securing the best deal on a mortgage. We have an extensive background and reputation we’re looking to uphold with every transaction. Your happiness is the key to our success. Start your journey to Florida paradise with Bella Verde Realty.
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